A new plaque marking the Peterloo Massacre in Manchester has been unveiled after a campaign for a fitting tribute to the victims.

At least 11 people were killed and hundreds more injured when the military attacked pro-democracy campaigners at St Peter's Fields on 16 August, 1819.

The new red memorial replaces a blue plaque, which angered many as it made no reference to those killed or hurt.

It is sited on the Radisson Hotel, the old Free Trade Hall, on Peter Street.

The Lord Mayor Glynn Evans, said: "We are acknowledging one of the most important events in Manchester's history and it should be marked accordingly.

"We must also never forget those who lost their lives on that day."

Local militia

The number of people killed is a matter of historical debate.

Manchester City Council has decided to mark 15 deaths after consulting historian Robert Poole, an expert on the massacre.

Under the heading "The Peterloo Massacre", the plaque reads: "On 16th August 1819 a peaceful rally of 60,000 pro-democracy reformers, men, women and children was attacked by armed cavalry resulting in 15 deaths and over 600 severe injuries."

A crowd of 60,000 gathered in Manchester to listen to calls for the right for people to vote for their own MPs.

But local magistrates panicked at the sight of the huge crowd and sent in local militia, who waded in on horseback attacking people with their sabres.